Sidelock pacer lead connector

Abstract

A connector for a lead of a tissue stimulator such as a cardiac pacer uses a wedging element to fix the lead against inadvertent withdrawal from the pacer header. A wedge member is received in a channel which intersects a bore in the header in which the lead is inserted for connection with a pulse generator. When the wedging member is pressed into its channel, as by simple finger pressure, it engages the lead off-axis, e.g. along a tangent, and forces the lead into tight engagement with the sidewall of the header bore. A present embodiment is adapted for use with a lead which has a deformable covering. The wedge member has a concavity formed therein within which the lead seats. A first end of the wedge member has an upraised portion which is hump-shaped. This upraised portion first cams the lead into engagement with the bore sidewall, and then passes beyond the lead by deforming the lead covering. The lead then seats in the concavity. This serves to not only lock the lead within the bore, but also prevent the wedge member from being dislodged, since it is in turn now located in place by the lead. The wedge member is preferably located on a lateral side of the header so that it is readily accessible for use. Embodiments are disclosed for use with single bore as well as double bore headers.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.